Go Back
+ servings
A plate of Asian-style cucumber salad with sliced cucumbers coated in a dark soy-based dressing, garnished with crushed peanuts and red pepper flakes.

Asian Cucumber Salad

A refreshing, crunchy cucumber salad with bold Asian flavors and a hint of spice, perfect for snacking or as a side.
Prep Time 5 minutes
resting 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad, Side
Cuisine: Asian, Fusion
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

  • 2 English cucumbers about 4 cups sliced, thinly
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt for drawing out excess moisture
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (fresh for strong flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated (for zesty aroma)
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar adds tang
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce for umami
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil toasty flavor
  • 1 tablespoon honey for subtle sweetness
  • 1 –3 teaspoons chili paste or Sriracha optional (adjust to desired heat)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish and crunch
  • 4 green onions thinly sliced (for freshness)

Method
 

  1. Slice the cucumbers thinly and place in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and toss to coat. Let them rest for 10–15 minutes to release excess water.
  2. Drain any liquid released from the cucumbers and transfer them to a paper towel–lined tray. Pat mostly dry and return to the bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and optional chili paste until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 ServingCalories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 550mgPotassium: 392mgFiber: 2gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 359IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 51mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Letting the cucumbers rest after salting ensures extra crispness, while the tangy, garlicky dressing with optional chili gives each bite a lively kick. Perfect chilled as a snack or side dish.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!